HECS increase a concern

EMILY WOODS31 Aug 2014, 10:03 p.m.

Achieving higher education may be costly

CONCERN about university fee deregulation and the possible increase to HECS interest loomed over prospective students and parents at the University of Tasmania's Cradle Coast campus open day yesterday.

Chelsea Charles, 16, wants to study medicine, but is worried how an increase in HECS interest could impact her after studying.

"I've definitely thought about it. I might have to work longer to pay it all off," Chelsea, in year 11 at Circular Head Christian School, said.

The high school student's mother, Trish Charles, said she would do what she could to ensure her daughters completed tertiary education.

"The increase worries me," Ms Charles said.

"It makes you re-think your goals, knowing that you might have to contribute more to the cost of the child's education.

"But I'll do what it takes; I want them to be able to achieve the best they can."

David Parkin, former AFL player, coach and current Deakin University sports and exercise lecturer, is a staunch advocate for education.

Mr Parkin spoke at the open day and was concerned about how the changes to universities could impact the future of tertiary education.

"As a parent, grandparent and as an educationalist, the only two things that governments really have to worry about are health and education, and if you get both of those right you might be able to create a better society," he said.

"I think it's really sad. If this country is to go ahead it's got to be on creating people who are more flexible and open-minded. People who are able to create change.

"Education is the key and how well we do at the primary, secondary and tertiary level is measure of us as a country.

"We need to be encouraging further education and my view is that it's going to create more difficulties for people to access tertiary education."

CONCERN about university fee deregulation and the possible increase to HECS interest loomed over prospective students and parents at the University of Tasmania's Cradle Coast campus open day yesterday